A SOUTHAMPTON ferry operator has become one of the city’s first winners of an award for its supportive and productive environment.

Red Funnel was recognised for the Workplace Wellbeing Charter award after the company has proved it encourages positive lifestyle choices and addressing health issues.

The operator runs ferries between Town Quay and Cowes on the Isle of Wight catting 2.1 million and more than 700,000 vehicles.

More than 1,000 organisations across England have received a Workplace Wellbeing Charter award.

But Red Funnel is among the first four to do so in the city and achieved the most points, gaining the Achievement level.

The charter sets the business standard for health, safety and wellbeing across England.

It considers issues such as leadership, sickness and absence management, awareness of alcohol and drug abuse, smoking, mental health and stress, healthy eating and physical activity.

The charter focuses on three key areas: leadership, culture and communication.

Southampton City Council assessed Red Funnel, by visiting workplaces and offices.

Council officials also spoke to management and staff about the procedures in place.

The company runs car and high-speed ferry services between Southampton and East and West Cowes.

Shirley Anderson, Red Funnel HR director, said the company was please to have reached the standard for the award.

She added: “There is strong evidence that having a healthy workforce can reduce sickness, lower staff turnover and boost productivity and at Red Funnel we give high priority to our employee’s wellbeing.

“We are delighted to have reached the ‘Achievement’ level of the Workplace Wellbeing Charter and we will continue to regularly assess how best we can serve our employees and improve the work environment.”